Can someone please explain how to replace the steering column bearings in a 1996 Ford Bronco (tilt wheel, air bag)? I've got it down to the cast aluminum housing but can't figure out how to the get to the bearings. Every book I've looked at doesn't give a diagram, pictures or instructions they only say to take it to the dealer. I hope someone can help my out.

p.s., this is my first post here and hope I'm in the right place to post a question. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

You are in the right place... Welcome. Alas, I don't have the answer you seek but someone here does. They'll be along soon.

 

Thanks greystreak92, appreciate your quick response and hopefully someone else will be just as quick.

 

tim189,

First of all, Welcome to FTE

I had to replace my bearing as well, mine is a 97 F350 but I think the columns are the same. Keep in mind though, I DO NOT have an air bag, so I am not sure how to remove that.

Check out this link, I hope it helps:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ng-column.html

Good luck

 

That is the main issue, the airbags, if you have them, it's rather dangerous if you don't do it right, as if the airbag deploys it will seriously injure you. I remember someone mentioned you have to disconnect the air bag wire before anything. If you can't find accurate info on the procedure i would seriously advice taking it to the dealer (at least to get the airbag disconnected).

 

I absolutely agree with you Encho, air bags shouldn't be messed with unless you know what you are doing.

I personally wouldn't mess with them either, but I think tim189 was already past that point. I think I read he was down to the aluminum housing.

 

I'm past the air bag and now have replaced the bad bearings. Now my new problem is re-installing everything. If I attempt to bolt up the housing with the tilt wheel spring in place my ignition actuator doesn't go all the way inside the housing. If I put the housing on without the spring the actuator goes in as it should. I found something on the net that says to put the spring in after you bolt up the housing using a screw driver or pry bar. I've tried that and there is no way, not enough room.

Are there any suggestions on how to get that spring in place?

Again thanks in advance for any help.